Patricia Mou

Note that seeking happiness as an end might be counterproductive. Many people report that constantly checking to see if they are happy actually decreases their happiness - a report that fits with the research on "flow." It may be better to seek some of the above goals as ends, and happiness will be a side-effect.

Money was supposed to provide safety. Instead, an obsession with money made me feel anxious and inadequate...   I was also setting myself up to feel miserable. Because, frankly, I haven’t been very good at money—at making it, compounding it, keeping track of it, and protecting it. Using money as a scorecard was bound to lead to perpetual... See more

If you're struggling with negative thoughts, achieving flow is probably the best medicine. Contrary to popular wisdom, forced positive thinking often makes things worse.

Members of a tribe expect to benefit from investing into the tribe - and they might decide to leave if those benefits never manifest - but it matters little to them when and how exactly they receive that benefit.

Champion myself and others: I hold a high standard for myself and others. I know that we are capable of being great, doing great things, and staying true to ourselves. I compassionately and courageously remind myself and others of our truest, boldest, most authentic visions/dreams, even and especially when it's uncomfortable. I challenge us to step... See more

There is a common misperception of what makes life meaningful. It is the idea that we have a special purpose in life – and that once we find it, all our confusion ends.

Growing your tribe creates more resources that can allow you to reach higher goals. New people bring in new knowledge, new ideas, more attention, etc. At the same time, as the tribe grows it becomes increasingly harder to maintain highly trust-based group dynamics.

Live, work, and learn elegantly: I advocate for that which is elegantly designed, built, created— whether it's a clever turn of phrase, a well-written segment of code, a skillfully pared down piece of furniture, or a delightful UX element that precisely meets user needs. And in all aspects of my life and work, I do things well and elegantly.